Vein that is twisted--tortuous--and distended with blood The term varix is also used for similar abnormalities in arteries and in lymphatic vessels Varicose veins occur in a number of areas, including the legs; the esophagus, or gullet; the spermatic veins, which return blood from the testes
The veins in the leg may become weakened and enlarged, particularly after blood clots have formed in them Such thin-walled, enlarged veins are called "varicose" and cannot be used for coronary bypass grafts
Varicose veins are swollen and painful veins in a person's legs, which sometimes require a medical operation. or varix Twisted vein distended with blood. Varix also covers arteries and lymphatic vessels (see lymphatic system). Varicose veins occur mostly in the legs, when malfunctioning valves let blood pool in veins near the skin. Causes include hereditary valve and vein wall weakness and internal or external pressure on veins. Varices are common in pregnancy, suggesting that hormone abnormalities play a role. Symptoms include a heavy feeling, with leg cramps and swelling after standing a long time. Complications include skin ulcers and thrombosis. Treatment involves strong support hose, injection therapy, or surgery. Varices in the esophagus, which often occur in liver disease, can ulcerate and bleed. See also hemorrhoid